China
SCO anti-terror drill gets underway in Urumqi
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Source: CCTV.com | 08-10-2007 14:27
Special Report: 80th Anniversary of PLA |
On Thursday, the SCO's first anti-terror drill codenamed "Peace Mission 2007" got underway in Urumqi, the capital city of Northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region.
On behalf of the SCO member countries the Chief of General Staff from the Chinese People's Liberation Army, Liang Guanglie, declared "Peace Mission 2007" opened at noon on Thursday.
The drill is the SCO's fifth military exercise with six-and-a-half thousand troops from China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan taking part.
The Chiefs of Staff from the six member countries agree that it is the responsibility of SCO armed forces to safeguard regional peace and stability.
Liang Guanglie, Chief of General Staff, PLA, said, "It does not concern the interest of any third party nor makes threat to any country."
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Liang also added that the joint anti-terror exercise will enhance trust among the SCO members.
When it comes to the Chinese troops, Liang noted the joint exercise provides an excellent opportunity for them to learn from others and to make improvements.
Russia's general director praised the Chinese troops.
Admiral Vladimir Moltensky, Russia's general director of the drill, said, "I would like to stress the capability of China's air force. It sent a large number of troops for the exercise under harsh conditions. We'd like to express admiration towards the Chinese army in preparing for the drill."
Military leaders from the six member countries have visited Urumqi's Monument to the People's Heroes.
The structure was built over half a century ago. It stands as a symbol for the ethnic groups in Xinjiang to pursue happiness and safeguard national unity.
Editor:Du Xiaodan
